Al-Jawf (Empty Space) Articulation Point — The Madd Alif and Its Origin

Definition:
Al-Jawf (the cavity) is the internal empty space of the mouth and throat combined. It is not a specific point but an extended void.

Letters Articulated from Al-Jawf:
The three smooth madd (extension) letters:

• Sukoon Alif preceded by fatha: "Qaala"
• Sukoon Waaw preceded by dhamma: "Yaqoolu"
• Sukoon Yaa preceded by kasra: "Qeela"

Characteristics of This Articulation Point:

1. Not constricted to a point; the sound extends through the empty space.
2. These letters cannot receive vowel marks (they are always sukoon).
3. They naturally extend for 2 counts (natural madd).
4. The madd alif is always sukoon — it never receives a vowel.

Rule:
The jawf letters are the only letters in Arabic with no physical articulation point — only empty air — hence they are called "al-hawaa'iyya" (the airy letters).

Examples:
• "Qaala" — madd alif from the jawf.
• "Yaqoolu" — madd waaw from the jawf.
• "Qeela" — madd yaa from the jawf.